Parts Needed to Flat Tow 2018 Chevy Sonic RS Hatchback

Updated 07/05/2018 | Published 07/03/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Roadmaster Nighthawk All-Terrain Tow Bar w/ LED Lights - Non-Binding - RV Mount - 8,000 lbs

(793)

$1545.00

Blue Ox Patriot Portable Flat Tow Brake System - Proportional

(397)

$1577.67

Roadmaster Universal Hy-Power Diode Wiring Kit

(299)

$95.97

Roadmaster 4-Diode Universal Wiring Kit for Towed Vehicles - 7-Way to 6-Way Coiled Adapter Cord

(3187)

$175.28

Roadmaster Direct-Connect Base Plate Kit - Removable Arms

(3329)

$670.00

Question:

We just purchased a 2018 Chevy Sonic RS hatchback as everyone at the dealership said it was flat towable. Called Chevy this morning and in confirming VIN number find its not towable. The dealership is sending us emails from various people throughout chevy and GM saying all 2018 Sonics are flat towable. HELP!!

asked by: Tammy R

Expert Reply:

The final authority on whether a vehicle can be flat towed is the manufacturer. It sounds like your 2018 Chevy Sonic Hatchback is flat towable if it has a manual transmission but they are still sorting out the details. We have all the parts needed to flat tow it. For a base plate kit you'd want the part # RM-523194-5 which is a confirmed fit and will work well. The Nighthawk Tow Bar part # RM-676 that you referenced would be a very good choice too that will work with the base plate kit mentioned.

For lighting you can use the diode kit, # RM-152, and not have to worry about cutting into the taillight housing. This will splice into your taillight wiring to allow your tow vehicle to control the taillight assemblies of the towed vehicle. This comes with a round 6-way connector that you will install on the front of your towed vehicle and enough coiled wire to go from there to the RV.

And finally, most states now require supplemental braking in the vehicle being flat towed. The easiest system to set up and use is the Blue Ox Patriot # BLU37TR, that applies the vehicle brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on both vehicles.

Most likely you will also need a high low adapter so that the tow bar will be level when you are flat towing. I attached a link to a page that has all of the ones we carry.

I have included a couple of helpful links to our articles on flat towing for you. Be sure to consult the vehicle owners manual for more specific information on flat towing your vehicle.